Alibi Picks

How the West was fed

As comfortable and hardy as an old pair of boots, the chuck wagon dinner is a venerated piece of cowboy culture. But you don't have to travel back in time, or even to Texas, to get a taste. Every Saturday evening until Labor Day, Edgewood's Wildlife West ecopark (I-40 and Route 66) rustles up a relaxed, family-style meal with all the fixings—barbecued brisket, chicken, ranch beans, baked potatoes, rolls, apple sauce, cookies and lemonade. (There are vegetarian options, too.) It's served under the stars with a little live country music to aid in digestion. Cost is $20 adults, $19 seniors, $10 kids ages 5 to 11 and free for kids under 5. You'll need to RSVP by 2 p.m. the day of the meal: Do it at (877) 981-WILD (9453) or wildlifewest.org.